Several Republican congressmen in New York recently penned a joint letter to Governor Hochul, urging the state to participate in a “Federal Tax Deduction Scholarship Program.” The program would allow taxpayers to receive a tax deduction of up to $1,700 for donating to scholarship organizations, helping economically disadvantaged students access more educational options. A spokesperson for the governor’s office stated that they are currently monitoring the situation and waiting for further details on federal policy.
Republican Congresswoman Claudia Tenney sent the letter to Governor Hochul on February 5, co-signed by individuals such as Nicole Malliotakis, Nick LaLota, Mike Lawler, Nick Langworthy, and Elise Stefanik. The letter highlighted that by joining the program, the governor could ensure that New York families are not left out of opportunities to expand educational choices.
According to the regulations, the federal program is expected to take effect in January 2027, providing tax deductions for taxpayers who donate to scholarship organizations, applicable to students in both public and private schools in the state. Scholarship eligibility is limited to students whose family income is below 300% of the median income for their area.
Republican lawmakers emphasized that the bill aims to incentivize private donations, while supporting student scholarships without reducing funding for public schools. They also noted that 28 governors across the United States, including Democratic Governor Jared Polis of Colorado, have already announced their participation in the program. Polis previously stated that not joining the program would be “crazy.”
In their letter, legislators stressed that students and parents should have the right to choose the most suitable educational path for themselves, and that a family’s residence or income level should not limit a child’s educational opportunities. They urged the governor to make a decision promptly.
Governor Hochul is currently seeking reelection for a second complete four-year term, with the gubernatorial election scheduled for November this year. Her Republican opponent, Bruce Blakeman, has criticized Hochul for not yet enrolling New York in the program.
In response, the governor’s office stated that no decision has been made regarding participation in the program and they are awaiting more policy details from the Trump administration. The governor’s spokesperson indicated that despite the program’s projected implementation in 2027, the federal government has not provided complete policy information to states yet, requiring careful evaluation before making commitments. The spokesperson stated that the governor supports measures that benefit students and schools but given past controversies in federal government policies, the state must thoroughly review the relevant content.
Previously, the governor’s office clarified that as the program has not yet taken effect, there are no concerns about federal funding loss at present.
The program has garnered support from the New York State Catholic Conference and former Obama administration Education Secretary Arne Duncan. However, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) holds a contrary stance. The union’s president, Randi Weingarten, criticized the tax deduction mechanism as a “permanent school voucher system” in a letter to the IRS on December 22 last year.
Currently, whether New York will join the federal program remains pending the governor’s final decision.